The New Frontier of Professional Development: 6 Reasons Why Leaders Should Embrace Virtual Learning

Online learning and professional development is a powerful tool for providing employees with opportunities that are flexible, cost-effective, and accessible.?

We know that the work force is hungry for learning. In one study, 76% of employees say they're more likely to stay with a company when development is offered. 55% say that they need training to perform better in their jobs.??

And it’s not just words. They are motivated with one in two employees independently pursuing development outside of work.?

So, not only will developing your team strengthen performance and boost skills, it will also increase moral and improve retention. Offering learning opportunities online is a great way to fulfill this need in a manageable way.??

Here are six solid reasons why virtual learning might be right for you and your team:?

1. It’s convenient.??

It can be done anywhere, at any time, and from the comfort of home or the office.?

No one likes a commute, and with online learning options more available, that doesn’t need to be a factor anymore. It also means there is access to coaches and courses from around the world without geographic restriction. You don’t even need to be in the same room as someone to learn from them.

2. It’s more flexible.?

Learning online offers flexibility that allows people to balance it with their work and other commitments. It’s easy to find the courses that fit with the schedule, budget, workload, and pace of learning. Also, when all you need is an internet connection to attend, it reduces the chances of conflicts.?

3. It creates connection and space for collaboration.?

Working from home can be isolating, and virtual learning is an easy way to increase engagement and moral. By having someone provide virtual training for your team, you’re facilitating a gathering that allows connection separate from work while still being engaging and productive.??

4. It’s more cost-effective.?

Online professional development is less expensive than traditional classroom-based training. You save money on the transportation, lodging, and materials needed when you bring in an in-person instructor.??

5. It can be supplemental to other development opportunities.?

Many companies have built-in professional development programs like mentorships and coaching. These are great supports for employees and virtual training is a great way to supplement their learnings.??

If you have an employee with a recognized weak spot, providing supplemental virtual training will help accelerate their progress. By providing targeted learning, they’ll be able to get more out of their mentorship or coaching programs. ?

6. It can be focused.??

You can customize your employee’s development to specifically match their needs. By purchasing learning opportunities for individual employees, you can provide targeted training.

For example, if you have have an employee that struggles with conflict, our course Leading Through Challenging Conversations will provide training specific to their need. Or, if you have a new manager, Leading Through 1:1s will help them build an essential skill for their new role.

Next steps.?

If you’re interested in professional development, virtual or in person, Cadence offers a range of leadership and communication courses.?Our upcoming series, the Manager Accelerator, is a 4-part webinar series designed to boost both new and seasoned managers. The courses are now available for pre-order as individual courses or as a bundle.

Check out our full course offerings here, including our enrolment courses and team courses.?

We look forward to hearing from you. Greatness awaits.??